In order to bring you the best possible user experience, this site uses Javascript. If you are seeing this message, it is likely that the Javascript option in your browser is disabled. For optimal viewing of this site, please ensure that Javascript is enabled for your browser.
 EMAIL TO FRIEND     |      PRINTER FRIENDLY     |    
          advertisement

Antispasmodics & Digestive Disorders

- Summary
- About antispasmodics
- Types and differences
- Conditions of concern
- Potential side effects
- Drug or other interactions
- Lifestyle considerations
- Symptoms of overdose
- Pregnancy use issues
- Child use issues
- Elderly use issues
- Questions for your doctor

Reviewed By:
Vikram Tarugu, M.D., AGA, ACG
David Friedel, M.D., AGA

Summary

Antispasmodics are medications used to treat cramps or spasms that occur in the stomach, intestines and bladder. Certain digestive conditions are treated with antispasmodics, including irritable bowel syndrome and urinary incontinence (the inability to control urine flow). The drugs may also be used to help prevent nausea and vomiting and motion sickness.

In some cases, antispasmodics may be used with another drug as a means of therapy. For example, antispasmodics may be used with antacids to treat peptic ulcers.

Peptic Ulcer

Antispasmodics are available in pill, tablet, capsule, syrup, injection and suppository form.

Patients who use these drugs should inform their physician of any medical condition they may have because certain symptoms can be worsened by using antispasmodics. For example, antispasmodics may increase a patient’s heart rate, which can aggravate symptoms for individuals with bleeding problems. In addition, the use of certain drugs can trigger undesirable side effects in some patients.

Antispasmodics should be taken carefully according to a physician’s recommendations. An overdose of some antispasmodics can lead to unconsciousness and even death. In addition, pregnant women, children and elderly people may be more vulnerable to certain side effects and must use antispasmodics with caution.

page 1 of 12 | Next Page




Review Date: 03-14-2007

Their lives are all about freebies

Consumer correspondent Janice Lieberman reports on two people whose career is dedicated to getting free stuff.

Meditate Your Stress Away

If stress is the plague of the 21st century, meditation may be a cure.

Sneeze No More

Sneeze No More

You’ll find it easy to avoid allergies.

Love the outdoors again
advertisement
advertisement
Home  |  Health Centers  |  Health A-Z  |  Staying Healthy  |  Diet & Fitness  |  Woman & Family  |  Pregnancy  |  Community

also on iVillage: Pregnancy & Parenting  |  Beauty & Style  |  Home & Garden  |  Food  |  Weddings  |  Love  |  Entertainment

Terms of Service  |  Privacy Policy  |  Site Map  |  Newsletters  |  Feedback

Copyright (c) 2000-2008 iVillage Inc. All rights reserved. The information provided on this site is intended for your general knowledge only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease without consulting with a qualified healthcare provider. Please consult your healthcare provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your condition.